Optimizing government decision-making through knowledge management systems: Evidence from development programs in Nigeria

This study examines the role of Knowledge Management Systems (KMS) in optimizing government decision-making within development programs and policy processes in Nigeria. The increasing complexity of governance, coupled with the demand for evidence-based policymaking, has made the effective management of knowledge a critical requirement for public sector performance. Despite significant investments in development initiatives, decision-making processes in Nigeria remain constrained by fragmented data systems, weak institutional memory, and limited coordination across agencies. This study therefore seeks to assess how KMS can enhance policy formulation, implementation efficiency, and service delivery outcomes.
The study adopts a systematic review methodology guided by the PRISMA 2020 framework to ensure transparency, rigor, and reproducibility. A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and JSTOR, was conducted to identify relevant peer-reviewed empirical studies published between 2000 and 2024. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, focusing on those that examined knowledge management, governance processes, and decision-making outcomes in public sector or development contexts, particularly within Sub-Saharan Africa. The study selection process followed the PRISMA flow structure, including identification, screening, eligibility assessment, and final inclusion. A total of 40 studies met the criteria and were included in the final synthesis. Given the heterogeneity of study designs and outcome measures, a qualitative narrative synthesis approach was employed.
The findings reveal that KMS significantly improve government decision-making by enhancing access to reliable data, promoting inter-agency collaboration, and supporting timely and evidence-based policy actions. However, the effectiveness of these systems is strongly influenced by institutional capacity, including technical expertise, organizational culture, and leadership support. Persistent challenges such as inadequate ICT infrastructure, resistance to change, and poor data integration continue to limit the full realization of KMS benefits. The study concludes that while KMS hold substantial potential for improving governance outcomes in Nigeria, their success depends on a holistic approach that integrates technology with institutional strengthening. The study contributes to the growing body of literature on knowledge-driven governance and provides practical insights for policymakers seeking to enhance decision-making effectiveness in developing contexts.